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INSIDE

December 2022

Must-have tools for HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING How to tame HOLIDAY CLUTTER

a magazine for women

HOLIDAY FEAST Apple cider pork and leftover turkey quesadillas FOOTWEAR ESSENTIALS for fall and winter

Home for the

HOLIDAYS Cathy Goodman, of Dubuque

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Home for the holidays They say there’s no place like it — and there is a reason why

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hen it comes to the holidays, there is a reason why our focus ultimately turns to home.

It’s our roots and our sense of grounding. It’s what we know, and in its essence, it’s the birthplace of who we are and of who we become. As we get older and begin to establish homes of our own — and perhaps new traditions to accompany those — pieces of us continue to gravitate toward those things that began at the roots. Maybe it’s as simple as whipping up a batch of Mom’s homemade Christmas cookies, slipping into matching PJs the night before Christmas, or singing favorite holiday carols around the piano with a group of lifelong friends. The latter is something this month’s cover girl holds near and dear during the holiday season. Cathy Goodman has become somewhat of a local cheermeister for all things Christmassy, from her annual music review, “Snowbiz” — featuring a carefully curated group of vocalists known as the Mistletones backed by a big band — to her holiday themed murder mystery dinners and her decking the halls at home. Goodman shares how her fascination with Christmas started and how she continues to spread cheer throughout the tri-states. Fitting with that theme, we also offer ideas for getting into the holiday spirit, from must-have party planning tools to delicious eats and more. Heading into the new year, we also take a look at home trends for 2023, in addition to ways to minimize holiday clutter and get organized. And as we continue marching into winter, our beauty and fashion experts offer options for doing it in style with seasonal boots. However home looks for you and yours this season, take the time to slow down and savor those things that spark nostalgia in the days ahead. Happiest of holidays from all of us at Her.

Megan Gloss

December 2022 Her 3

her

december 2022 ◆ vol. 19, issue 12

a magazine for women t

Beauty & the board: How to create the perfect charcuterie for your holiday party/14 by statepoint media

on the cover Queen of Christmas cheer: Cathy Goodman sets the stage in helping the tri-states embrace the holiday spirit/5

t

t

other features Home/26

• 4 tips to minimize holiday clutter • Style at Home: An ode to decorating with plaid • Home forecast: 4 styles on the horizon for your dwelling in 2023 • Inside the mind of a professional organizer • Create your to-dos and not-to-dos for the holiday season

Reflection/42

• A time for dreams and wishes 4 Her December 2022

Having a party? Not without must-have tools for entertaining with ease this holiday season/16 by statepoint media Apple Cider Pork: Foods pair for a perfect holiday dinner offering/18 by linda gassenheimer

by megan gloss photo by jessica reilly cover design by anthony frenzel layout by megan gloss and anthony frenzel

Leadership/40

food Hosting a holiday open house/10 by michelle london

t

her: a magazine for women P.O. Box 688 Dubuque, IA 52004-0688

Editorial content Megan Gloss, Features Editor 563-588-5638 [email protected]

For the perfect holiday leftovers ... Try putting zesty Turkey Quesadillas to the test/20 by linda gassenheimer beauty & fashion Footwear fashion essentials for fall and winter/22 by statepoint media health & wellness How to navigate the holidays with a newborn/24 by becky franzen

Advertising content Wendy Vosberg 563-588-5606 [email protected]

Her: A Magazine for Women (USPS Number 22290) Volume xx No. xx is published by the Telegraph Herald, a division of Woodward Communications, Inc., at 801 Bluff St., Dubuque, IA 52001. Periodicals postage paid at Dubuque, IA Post Office. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Her, P.O. Box 688, Dubuque IA 52004-0688.

herOn the Cover

Queen of

Christmas cheer Cathy Goodman sets the stage in helping the tri-states embrace the holiday spirit by megan gloss photos by jessica reilly and contributed

December 2022 Her 5

herOn the Cover

C

hristmas always was a special time in the Goodman household.

Decorating the Christmas tree; folding down page corners of the annual Sears catalog advertising the latest toys; staying up late to watch Perry Como’s Christmas special; hosting Christmas Eve gatherings of aunts, uncles and cousins, complete with a full spread of food; and music — so much music — as the family gathered around the piano to sing Christmas carols in the living room ... “It was just always a big deal in our house,” said Cathy Goodman, 57, who today lives only a couple of homes up the street from the one she grew up at in Dubuque. “There was always lots of food, lots of celebrating, lots of family and music, music, music.” One of four children of Geri Goodman, a longtime Dubuque pianist, the seeds of music were planted early in Cathy — a vocalist and graphic designer by day — and her siblings. “It all started with midnight Mass,” she said. “Because Mom played piano, all of us were expected to get involved at a young age. For the longest time, we hated it, but then came the time when Mom decided that she didn’t want to do it anymore and pulled us out of it as well. We were angry. It had become such a part of us.” The Christmas bug continued to bite as Cathy moved out on her own. “Christmas became an obsession,” she said. “In my first tiny apartment, I remember roping garland everywhere and hanging up lights. Moving into bigger spaces has only allowed me to get more stuff. I have tubs and tubs in the basement — all red and green, of course. I have ornaments all over. About 80% of them, I could tell you when I bought them and even what I was wearing when I did, or who gave them to me. I have eight Christmas trees and get one real tree every year. I have a very specific process as to the first decoration to go up and the last to come down.” Even her trio of dogs get in on the festivities. “They all have Christmas collars they get to pick out,” Cathy said, with a laugh. “I set them down, and whichever one they seem to sniff or chew on more gets to be their collar.”

6 Her December 2022

herOn the Cover

December 2022 Her 7

herOn the Cover Cathy also has worked to carry on her family’s musical legacy through the merriness of the holiday season. In 2005, she teamed up with her mom to release a CD titled, “A Very Geri Christmas and a Cathy New Year.” And since 2007, she has produced the annual holiday revue, “Snowbiz.”

Convention & Visitor’s Bureau’s People’s Choice Award in 2016. In 2019, it again was recognized with a Best of Dubuque award.

This year’s performances, paired with a lunch and a dinner, took place on Dec. 1 at the Grande Ballroom of the Hotel Julien Dubuque.

In addition to “Snowbiz,” Cathy also is the founder of a local theatrical improvisation troupe known as the Brew Ha Ha Players. It performs holiday themed murder mystery dinners in partnership with Stone Cliff Winery in the Star Brewery at the Port of Dubuque.

Each year, it includes six vocalists dubbed The Mistletones, a name that took hold after Cathy and another group of vocalists performed as part of a different holiday revue. Today, the singers include Cathy, sister Tori Richter, Abby Foley, Jake Tebbe, Jacob Herrmann and Mark Oppedahl. That outfit, which also performs at private parties, is backed by a seven-piece big band comprised of bassist and brother-in-law Dave Richter, pianist Terry Dillon, drummer Masa Iwasaki, saxophonist Ken Kilian, trombonist Marty Busch and trumpets Gary Kirst and Ben Drury. The show, which features an assortment of holiday classics with a few lesser-known tunes sprinkled in, netted the Dubuque Area

“My music library easily includes about 5,000 songs,” Cathy said. “It’s an amazing group. When all of those vocal harmonies come together ... “

Performances are from 5 to 7 p.m. and include a four-course meal. Two shows will take place later this month, including “Ho, Ho, Homicide” on Sunday, Dec. 11; and the Brew Ha Ha Players’ original show, “Cut Loose Tree Farm” on Sunday, Dec. 18. Reservations are required by 5 p.m. the Friday prior to each performance by calling 563-583-6100, ext. 203. Tickets are $59.95, plus tax. Continuing the spread of holiday cheer, previous years saw Cathy participating in the Mathias Ham Historic Site’s Christmas offerings. She also volunteers with Toys for Tots, in addition to wrapping gifts — a hobby of which she is particularly fond.

The Brew Ha Ha Players perform a pair of holiday murder mystery theater offerings, including “Ho, Ho, Homicide” and “Cut Loose Tree Farm.” Photo contributed.

8 Her December 2022

herOn the Cover Online Mistletones.biz

Fittingly this year, Cathy’s niece, Katy Richter, also will bring a little holiday cheer to the tri-states, returning to Dubuque from New York to perform as the guest soloist for the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra’s series of holiday concerts on Saturday, Dec. 3, and Sunday, Dec. 4. The season culminates with an annual holiday party Cathy hosts for family and her closest friends, where music inevitably becomes the focal point. “I host a Christmas Eve-eve party every year on Dec. 23,” she said. “Mom still plays at the piano, and everyone sings. People are always blown away by the music. I think, for me, my love of Christmas is about family and the memories — celebrating old ones and creating new ones. Ironically, I’ve never been Christmas caroling, so there is still an opportunity for that.” Megan Gloss writes for the Telegraph Herald.

Jake Tebbe (from left), Cathy Goodman, Tori Richter, Mark Oppedahl, Jacob Herrmann and Abby Foley perform as The Mistletones in the annual “Snowbiz.” Photo contributed.

“I think, for me, my love of Christmas is about family and the memories — celebrating old ones and creating new ones. Ironically, I’ve never been Christmas caroling, so there is still an opportunity for that.” Cathy Goodman

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December 2022 Her 9

herFood

10 Her December 2022

herFood

Hosting a

holiday open house F

article and photos by michelle london

or me, holiday parties always impart a warm, cozy feeling of getting together with friends, family and neighbors. But hosting such a party can be stressful, expensive and time-consuming, which defeats the whole warm and cozy philosophy.

My solution is a holiday open house. The idea behind this easy-to-pull-off gathering is that there is no pressure on neither the host nor the guest. Food and beverages are easy and prepared ahead of time. Guests can come and go within the time allotted for the open house depending on their schedules. And there is no need to plan things to keep the party flowing. The revolving door of guests coming and going offers new introductions and conversations that keep things interesting. This is all you need to make your holiday open house a success: A grazing table, a hot chocolate bar, a stunning dessert and a beverage bar. Here, step-by-step, is your guide to guaranteed easy entertaining this holiday season:

December 2022 Her 11

herFood Grazing table Grazing tables are all the rage right now, and for good reason. They’re visually impressive. They can be modified to offer guests everything from light appetizers to a full meal. And, while you might not believe me as you read this, they’re super easy to put together. Decide where your grazing table will be. It could be your dining room table. (I have a round dining room table that works well), or your kitchen counter or island. Cover your chosen space with butcher or parchment paper. (You can find rolls of this at most craft stores or online.) Begin building your table by adding serving trays, bowls and plates. Add height with pedestal serving trays and bowls. If you don’t have any, you can create them by turning a bowl over and placing a plate on top. The idea of different heights is to add additional space to your grazing table and to create visual interest. Plan on about 5 ounces of meat and 7 ounces of cheese per guest. Adding a crockpot or two to your grazing table with appetizers like barbecue meatballs or smoked mini wieners is a great idea if you’re planning heavy hors d’oeuvres. Other easy food ideas for your grazing table: Cheese, crackers, meat, bread, jams and mustards, pepper relish, nuts, olives, pickles, dips and spreads, fruit (strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, grapes and raspberries), vegetables such as grape tomatoes and sliced cucumbers, chocolate truffles and Christmas cookies.

12 Her December 2022

putting everything together. Nope — a trip to the grocery store and about 20 minutes per plate. See? Easy. About two hours before your guests arrive, begin adding your food to the table. There is no right or wrong way to do this. Look at Pinterest to find beautiful food presentation examples that will inspire you. Don’t forget small plates for your guests to use as they graze, and napkins and serving pieces such as toothpicks, tongs, spoons and cheese knives. Check your local dollar store for these items, and as long as you’re there, check for any additional glassware, plates or serving pieces you think you might need.

Hot chocolate bar A hot chocolate bar is a fun idea, particularly if your open house is family-friendly. There are a couple of ways you can present your hot chocolate. You can prepare it ahead, then keep it warm in a crockpot and let guests ladle it into mugs, or you can keep hot water in a thermos or beverage dispenser. Be sure to use one that will withstand the hot temperature and offer a few varieties of cocoa powder for guests to mix. A variety of mix and match mugs add some visual interest. Even if you’re not a coffee or tea drinker and don’t have a lot of mugs in the house, Goodwill or a local thrift store will provide you with plenty of them for not a lot of money.

You shouldn’t have to do much prep work to start building your table. This time of year, local grocers offer a plethora of beautiful foods that are ready to serve.

Fill small bowls with hot chocolate toppings like minimarshmallows, candy cane pieces, chocolate chips, sprinkles, toffee chips, cinnamon sticks, whipped cream and whatever else you might dream up. Don’t forget delicious syrups like caramel, dark chocolate and vanilla.

Last year, I made dessert charcuterie plates for all of our neighbors, who couldn’t believe I hadn’t spent hours baking and

Wooden spoons, chocolatedipped spoons and stirrers, along with cocktail napkins, will complete your hot chocolate bar, which is

herFood sure to get plenty of compliments from your guests.

Dessert The easiest and most impressive dessert I’ve ever made is a trifle — a layered dessert of British origin. There are different ways to make a trifle, but the idea is that it is created in a large glass footed bowl so the beautiful layers can be seen. Making it even easier, you don’t have to bake a thing. You can if you want, but this is all about easy. Use pound cake, angel food cake, brownies or any other kind of cake, along with prepared whipped cream. (You certainly can make your own.) Jars of jellies, jams or curds, and fresh fruit offer a nice touch as well. Google “trifle dessert” and take your pick from more than 14 million results you’ll get.

Beverage bar Depending on what you want to serve, a beverage bar can be as simple as cans of soda plunged in ice in your kitchen sink or as varied as Christmas cocktails. If you’re going all out with hard liquor, a fun activity is to let your guests mix their cocktails. Choose specialty drinks (the internet is your friend) and print out the recipes. I found six holiday-themed drinks, along with dozens of others, on Jack Daniels’ website. Visit the sites of your favorites, and you’re sure to find a few recipes for holiday libations.

Display the recipes on your open house bar with all the ingredients needed for guests to try their hand at being a mixologist. Wassail (hot mulled cider), eggnog and mulled wine (spiced wine) can all be bought already prepared or are easy to make ahead of time and heated before serving.

It is easy to host a holiday open house, and it’s likely that once you do it, it will become an annual event that your friends, family and neighbors will look forward to attending. Happy holidays. Michelle London writes for the Telegraph Herald.

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December 2022 Her 13

herFood

14 Her December 2022

herFood

Beauty &

THE BOARD How to create the perfect charcuterie for your holiday party

A

by statepoint media

re you hosting a holiday party and looking for a simple way to impress your guests?

Here are a few steps for building an eye-catching and mouthwatering charcuterie board that will add color, flavor and variety to your holiday table.

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Grab a platter or surface to display your charcuterie. Anything will work, even a simple cutting board. Just be sure to choose a size that you can fill completely. Use dishes or ramekins of mismatched sizes, shapes and colors to hold dressings, toppings and sauces. This will keep your board clean and add fun visual details to the display.

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Include two to four cheeses of contrasting flavors and textures to please all palates, and to complement other elements of the board. The varieties you select should represent these basic categories: hard cheese, (such as Chardonnay Bellavitano) soft cheese, (such as brie) and blue cheese (such as French Roquefort).

4

While a traditional charcuterie board typically sticks with cured meats, the holiday season is the perfect occasion for adding depth and richness to your feast with grilled meats, such as filet, sliced into strips. Whether you are firing up the grill or preparing on a cooktop, allow any cooked meats to rest well before adding them to your board.

No charcuterie board is complete without some crunch. Add two to three options like pita crackers, crusty breads or toasted baguettes that will stand up to the weight of your meats and cheeses. Add some brightness and sweetness to your board. Fresh fruits like blueberries, strawberries and green grapes, and preserves such as peach pepper jam, will add contrast to rich, salty meats and cheeses. Don’t forget seasonal sweets and treats like soft peppermints, peanut brittle, chocolate dipped pretzels and candied nuts.

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You’ll want your charcuterie board to look as if it’s overflowing. So, as you’re building it out, start with the largest elements like the cheeses and meats first, followed by smaller items like crackers, fresh produce and sweets. Fill in any holes with sprigs of aromatic rosemary for trimming, along with additional portions of the smaller items. The various elements of the board should pair well together, so it’s OK if they touch. To wow your guests and their taste buds, take your charcuterie board to the next level with seasonal treats, grilled meats and a cornucopia of sweet and savory flavors.

December 2022 Her 15

herFood

Having a party? Not without must-have tools for entertaining with ease this holiday season

T

by statepoint media

is the season for gatherings galore. Whether you’re an all-star entertainer or a first-time host, having the right tools will set you up for success — meaning you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with loved ones. Here are a few must-haves to add to your holiday shopping list:

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herFood

Create memorable cocktails or mocktails that everyone will be talking about with uniquely shaped craft ice. Ice molds to fit every occasion, from spheres and sports balls to novelty and holiday ornament shapes. The easy-to-use, durable, stackable molds are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup. Plus, the slow-melting shapes keep drinks cool for longer. So, drop them in for fun and festive drinks at your next gathering.

easy scraping. Plus, their FSC-certified wood handle makes them an environmentally conscious way to add a touch of whimsy to the kitchen roster.

Functional and fashionable bowls Despite the name, mixing bowls can be one of the most versatile kitchen tools, used for mixing, prep, storage and if you choose

a stylish design like stainless steel, even serving. Why dirty multiple dishes when you can opt for one-bowl recipes? When it comes to entertaining, it’s best to work smarter, not harder. Having the right tools makes all the difference when you’re preparing to be the host with the most. Be sure to equip yourself right for a season of easy and festive holiday prep, and don’t forget that when it comes to hosting, versatility is the name of the game.

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With stackable pop molds, simply puree some fruit — strawberries, kiwis, etc. — pour the mixture into the molds, stack them in the freezer, and voilà, you’ve got a delightful treat that basically made itself. Better yet, guests can add the fruity pops to a glass of champagne or cocktail of choice to add flavor and keep drinks cool.

Table-worthy tools When hosting a dinner party, dishes will inevitably pile up in the sink. One way to cut down on dirty dishes is to use a set of kitchen utensils that is both stylish and attractive, so you can go from the stovetop to the dining table without needing to dirty any additional tools. Another tip is to make the meal family style, which allows your guests to choose what they want and reduces the need to portion out individual servings, ultimately giving you more time to enjoy the party.

Spatulas that make you smile From cookie batters to mashed potatoes, everyone needs a quality spatula to whip up their favorite holiday dishes. You can add fun and function to your feast with Spatulart Spatulas, featuring double-sided holiday designs and puns. With a nylon core, the high-quality spatulas provide strength for the heaviest mixing jobs and silicone edges that remain flexible for

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December 2022 Her 17

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18 Her December 2022

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Apple Cider Pork Foods pair for a perfect holiday dinner offering by linda gassenheimer • photo by tribune news service

W

ith the holiday season upon us, I’m thinking about apples and cider.

For this dinner, I add them to pork with a hint of rosemary for a treat. Charred sweet potatoes add a colorful side dish. They keep well; make extra to go with another meal. This time of year is a perfect month for apples. Many varieties are available. Rome and Golden Delicious apples are great for cooking. They hold their shape. Red Delicious or Granny Smith lose their shape when cooked.

Helpful hints • You also can use Fuji or Gala apples. • Look for sparkling apple cider in the market, not apple cider vinegar. • You can use apple juice instead of apple cider.

Countdown • Start pork. • While pork cooks, make sweet potatoes. • Finish pork recipe.

Shopping list

To buy: ¾ pound boneless pork loin chops, 1 bottle dried rosemary, 1 bottle sparkling apple cider, 1 medium Golden Delicious or Rome apple, 2 sweet potatoes, 1 bunch scallions. Staples: Olive oil, flour, salt and black peppercorns.

Apple Cider Pork Yield: 2 servings. • ¾ pound boneless pork loin chops • 2 tablespoons flour • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary • 2 teaspoons olive oil • 1 cup sparkling apple cider • 1 medium Golden Delicious or Rome apple, cored and sliced

Remove visible fat from pork. Add flour to a plate and dip both sides of the pork into the flour and sprinkle the pork with the dried rosemary. Heat oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Brown pork on both sides, about 2 minutes. Add the cider and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cover with a lid and cook 5-7 minutes. A meat thermometer should read 145 degrees. Remove the pork to a cutting board. Add the apple slices to the skillet. Raise the heat to high and reduce the liquid by half, about 3-4 minutes. Slice pork and divided between two dinner plates. Spoon the sauce and apples on top.

Charred Sweet Potato Yield: 2 servings. • 2 sweet potatoes (about 8 ounces each) • 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided use • 2 thinly sliced scallions (about ½ cup) • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Preheat boiler. Wash potatoes, do not peel, cut in half lengthwise. Place in a microwave oven and cook on high 5 minutes. Remove potatoes and scoop out the pulp into a bowl. Break up the flesh with a fork. Add half the olive oil and scallions. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and place back in the potato skins. Place potatoes on a baking sheet, cut side up. Brush the potatoes with the remaining olive oil and place under the broiler, 5 inches from the heat, for 3 minutes. Watch to make sure they don’t burn.

December 2022 Her 19

herFood

For the perfect holiday leftovers ...

Helpful hints • You can use any type of Mexican-style cheese. • If your skillet is not big enough to fit the two quesadillas, make them one at a time, or use two skillets.

Countdown

Try putting zesty Turkey Quesadillas to the test

• Prepare ingredients.

by linda gassenheimer • photo by metro creative

• Assemble the coleslaw.

I

s it too early to think about holiday leftovers? How about a different kind of turkey sandwich: A quesadilla?

It’s a turkey-and-cheese-filled tortilla. They’re pan-fried and served with coleslaw. You can make them with leftover turkey or chicken, or buy roasted turkey breast at the supermarket deli. You can use this recipe for any type of leftover roasted or deli-bought meats. For a quick side dish, buy deli-made coleslaw and doctor it up with some bought salsa verde. This is a spicy green sauce made with tomatillo and green chili peppers.

20 Her December 2022

• Make the quesadillas.

Shopping list To buy: 1 package 8-inch light whole wheat flour tortillas, 1 package shredded low-fat pepper jack cheese, 10 ounce cooked turkey breast, 1 jar sliced pimentos, 1 jalapeno pepper, 1 container deli coleslaw and 1 jar salsa verde.

herFood

Turkey Quesadilla • 2 8-inch light whole wheat flour tortillas • ¾ cup shredded low-fat pepper jack cheese • 10 ounces cooked turkey breast (cut into thin strips) (about 2 cups) • ¼ cup sliced pimento • 1 tablespoon seeded, sliced jalapeno pepper

Place the two tortillas on a countertop. Divide all the ingredients in half. Add the cheese to the tortillas, covering half of each one. Add the turkey over the cheese and then the pimento and jalapeno peppers. Fold each tortilla over. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the folded tortillas and cover the skillet with a lid. Turn the heat down to low and cook 2 minutes. Turn the folded tortillas over with a wide spatula. Cover the skillet with the lid and cook another 2 minutes. Watch to make sure the tortillas don’t burn. Place each tortilla on a dinner plate and serve with the coleslaw.

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Yield: 2 servings.

Coleslaw with Salsa Verde Yield: 2 servings. • 1½ cups deli coleslaw • 2 tablespoons salsa verde

Drain coleslaw. Mix salsa verde into the coleslaw. Divide between two dinner plates.

December 2022 Her 21

herBeauty & Fashion

Footwear fashion essentials for fall and winter by statepoint media

E

levated heights, neutral hues and eye-catching embellishments are making appearances in footwear, accessories and ready-to-wear items this season.

As a result, fashion lovers will have the freedom to update their wardrobe by selecting a few key pieces without feeling the need to overhaul their entire closets. Nichole Duck, senior women’s buyer for shoe retailer Rack Room Shoes, shares her list of top essentials to update outfits, along with suggestions for how to pair them with boots.

Update feminine pieces with edgy accents Floor-sweeping skirts, maxi knits and maxi dresses are popular pieces for fall and winter. Pair them with ankle boots to add an edgy flair to an overall feminine look. For example, try this season’s on-trend maxi skirt with wedge boots in black. Boot to try: XAppeal Elise Women’s Wedge Boot.

Explore different toe shapes Boot styles featuring sculpted heels and updated toe shapes — including square, pointed and rounded forms — serve as

22 Her December 2022

herBeauty & Fashion

some of the most versatile accessories when transitioning to autumn outfits. Children can enjoy the variety, too, as different toe shapes appear in kids’ styles, including Westerninspired styles, booties and Chelsea boots. Boot to try: Cupcake Couture Girls’ Lazer Bootie.

Select top seasonal colors The current palette for fall and winter features a variety of neutral hues, from taupe and tan to mocha and espresso. Rack Room Shoes recently introduced new boots in more inclusive shades to complement a broader range of skin tones. Boot to try: Michael by Michael Shannon Women’s Hope Dress Bootie.

Explore updates to Chelsea boots The chunky Chelsea boot remains front-and-center as a fall wardrobe staple. This season offers a variety of new options, including updates with colored outsoles and lug bottoms. Boot to try: Limelight Women’s Kamila Chelsea Boot. “The best thing about fall fashion is that there aren’t any rules regarding wearing boots. It’s all about mixing it up,” Duck said. “Pair boots with jeans and a blazer, leggings with a knit sweater, or a dress with a sequined jacket — the options are endless.” For more inspiration for venturing into the fall season in style, visit rackroomshoes.com.

December 2022 Her 23

herHealth & Wellness

How to navigate the holidays with a

newborn by becky franzen

Have you always traveled to be with family for the holidays? Now might be the time to evaluate your situation and make a new plan. Consider if it is realistic to hop on a plane or make a six-hour car drive with your new baby.

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s we head into the holiday season, we think of all the wonderful times we will have with family, the traditions we’ve always celebrated and the events that will keep us busy.

For families with a newborn, the upcoming holidays might feel overwhelming and a little bit nerve-wracking. If this is you or someone you know, here are some tips to get you through and allow for enjoyment as well: Say yes to help. You’ve probably already figured out that everything takes longer with a newborn. In our “do-it-myself” society, it can be hard to accept help when it is offered. This is one time that it is a good idea to say yes. Say yes to help with gift wrapping, laundry folding, house cleaning, cookie baking, baby holding and anything else that is offered. Say no to extra travel. Have you always traveled to be with family for the holidays? Now might be the time to evaluate your situation and make a new plan. Consider if it is realistic to hop on a plane or make a six-hour car drive with your new baby. Would it make more sense to ask the baby’s grandparents to come to you this year? Would it be easier to stay at home on the major holiday and visit at a later date when traffic isn’t as crazy and there is less family around? Feed the baby. This sounds like a no-

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brainer, but in the busyness of the holidays, it is easy to miss feeding cues, pop a pacifier in the baby’s mouth or let the baby sleep longer than normal. For a newborn, this results in a baby who is overtired, over hungry and, for mom, can lead to latching issues and milk supply issues when you are breastfeeding. Take the time to sit down with your baby and feed them. If you are feeling overwhelmed, feeding the baby provides a great opportunity to step away from the crowd and have some welcome quiet time. Limit contact for your baby. When you are at your family Christmas gathering, everyone will want to hold the new baby — even your well-meaning aunt who has been coughing or the cousin who hasn’t stopped sneezing since they arrived. It is perfectly OK to kindly say, “No, she needs her mom right now,” and if they are insistent, at least ask

herHealth & Wellness

them to wash their hands. It is overwhelming to the baby’s system when they are passed around to many different family members, and it is easy to miss feeding cues if your baby isn’t with you. To prevent a baby who is super fussy after a day with lots of people, keep her close to you. Wearing the baby in a wrap-style carrier is a great way to discourage lots of baby handling. Keep it simple. You’ve already figured out that everything takes longer when you have a baby. Give yourself grace and extra time. Do you usually decorate your entire house for Christmas? Maybe this is the year to have

one main room decorated instead. Have you always been the one to bring homemade goodies to your holiday gathering? It’s OK to make a smaller amount, ask others to donate or buy store-bought treats this year. Everyone will want to see the baby more than they will worry about what they are eating or how nicely your home is decorated. Let go of some traditions and make new ones. Are there traditions from your childhood that you can’t wait to carry on with your kids? Choose one or two and make them happen. There might be new traditions you’d like to start, such as purchasing an

ornament for your baby every year or cutting down a Christmas tree as a family. With some careful thought and planning, everlasting memories of the baby’s first Christmas will be made. Don’t forget to be present in the many happy moments you will experience with your baby and take a few pictures. Becky Franzen provides pre- and-postnatal breastfeeding education, flange fitting and consultations for breastfeeding and bottlefeeding at Statera Integrated Health and Wellness in Dubuque.

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tips to minimize holiday clutter by statepoint media

is the season for fun and festivities, which means more party attire, kids’ toys and decorations coming into the home.

Family organizing expert Jessica Litman, CEO and founder of The Organized Mama, shares her tips to keep your space clean and under control during the holidays.

Clear the countertops “When the party invitations, gift lists and schedules start to pile up in the kitchen, it’s time to designate one area where everything should go,” Litman said. “This will make it easier to keep the counters clear and for everyone in the family to know where to find their things before running out the door.” Litman said to collect all the papers and store them in a tray. For a DIY organizing system, try hanging a couple of clipboards on the wall in the entryway to hold important reminders and leave messages, or empty out a drawer and use shallow baking pans as bins for each person to place their grab-and-go items.

Prep for cooking and cleaning With all the time spent in the kitchen cooking, baking and cleaning up after family parties, make sure that you’re set up for easy maintenance. A Lazy Susan is a great way to create more room in a cabinet and store ingredients and utensils in one place for quick access, while keeping the mess to a minimum. Litman suggested lining it to keep surfaces free from sticky residue. A pre-cut, circular shaped liner is simple to install, prevents items from falling over and is easy to wipe clean without having to remove the Lazy Susan from the cabinet.

Litman also suggested decluttering drawers and stocking up on to-go containers so you can send guests home with leftovers.

Store the décor There likely will be an excess of bows, ribbons, gift bags, tape, scissors and wrapping paper around your home in the coming month. Instead of using a cabinet or drawer to store these items, Litman suggested hanging an overthe-door organizer in the closet and using the compartments to keep extras neat and tidy. When the holidays are over, Litman said to store small ornaments in egg cartons and wrap breakables in bubble cushioning for safekeeping until next year.

Make way for play All of the gift wrap means the kids will have new toys that need to be stored. Before the holidays begin, Litman said to go through your little one’s playroom and donate items they no longer use or have grown out of. Once the room is clear of clutter, wipe and line storage bins and cubbies with a machinewashable liner that contains antimicrobial protection that resists the growth of odorcausing mold and mildew, keeping surfaces spotless throughout the cold season and ensuring there always is a tidy spot to put holiday crafts, games and puzzles. Following these simple tips will allow you to enjoy neat spaces all season long.

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An ode to decorating with plaid story by katie laughridge • photos by tribune news service

rom decorating with buffalo check to styling classic tartan, plaid is an incredibly versatile pattern with a rich history. While plaid often is associated with fall and winter, you know I believe this pattern looks great all year long. I’ve previously written about my love for plaid, from Scottish tartans to the bold and beautiful check pattern. While we certainly don’t have the time for me to wax poetic about every type of plaid there is, I did want to take a moment to highlight the variety of ways you can decorate with your favorite plaid pattern this season and beyond. Suffice it to say, this might be one of the Scottish’s greatest legacies in the fashion world thus far. While the history of tartan goes back to as early as 3000 BC, and though ancient pieces of cloth have been found in more areas of the world than just Scotland, the Scots have become known for their ties to the textile. Dating back to the 1600s, the tartan pattern has been a mark of a Scottish man. Different patterns and colors served as clan or family identifiers, and they wore kilts that proudly showed off their family’s grand plaid. Scottish families continue to carry on the tartan tradition, and in the textile world, the timeless patterns will never go out of style.

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herHome Tartan plaid If you ask someone to close their eyes and imagine plaid, it is likely a tartan that immediately comes to mind. Tartan (or the Scottish plaid) is the plaid pattern best characterized by horizontal and vertical lines intersecting each other that together form different sizes of squares or checks all throughout the fabric. Among the most popular patterns are the Royal Stewart, Clan Wallace and Black Watch.

Decorating with Tartan plaid Go bold if your love for plaid is insurmountable. Decorate with this pattern in larger pieces like a sofa, rug or floor-to-ceiling window treatments. If you aren’t fully on board with the plaid look, try using it as an accent in pillows or a throw blanket. Although it is used often around this time of year, plaid can be used year-round to add dimension to your design. I often think of plaid as a neutral in this way.

Checks People often mistake gingham and buffalo check patterns for each other, but they are not the same. The two largest differences are scale and color. Buffalo check typically has a large scale and is traditionally found in red and black and white and black colorways. Gingham, on the other hand, is typically a small-scale pattern and traditionally found in red and white and blue and white colorways. Both have uniform squares made from crossing vertical and horizontal lines that, when overlapping, create darker squares. Both differ from a “checkered” pattern, which, like a checkerboard, consist of squares in two alternating colors wherein the same color does not share a side with a square of the same color. All these patterns are part of the family of checks.

Decorating with gingham and buffalo plaid Wander off-grid to a playful cottage aesthetic by decorating with gingham. While this pattern has been thrust into the spotlight with the emergence of cottagecore, its popularity as a pattern is not new.

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herHome While decorating with gingham might conjure quaint country cottage vibes, it is a versatile pattern. With the simple use of scale and color, this pattern can transition from a French country table to a stately dining room wall. Larger-scale prints work well on drapes, walls and bold vibrant colors. In a small-scale pattern or natural or toned-down colorway, the fabric boasts a beautiful aged finish — perfect for a period home. Pair your gingham with florals for a classic look that can work in any room.

Decorating with checkered plaid The checkerboard motif has recently stepped into the spotlight as the check of the moment. The classic staggered arrangement of (traditionally) black and white squares, reminiscent of a chessboard, is once again popping up across flooring, textiles, wallpaper and more. When used lightly, these checks can add a bold dash of print and eclecticism into a room. While black and white checks go through periods of peak popularity (like right now), they never completely go out of style and complement many other patterns and styles. Apply a checkered fabric to pop a traditional armchair; selecting a more neutral pattern (white on gray) gives it a modern feel, while a more distinctive pattern (blue and white) looks more traditional.

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The windowpane, as the name implies, is a variation of the plaid pattern, which looks reminiscent of windowpanes. Consider this fabric the bigger brother of the graphic check that is somehow in a league of its own thanks

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December 2022 Her 31

herHome to its popularity in men’s clothing.

Decorating with windowpane plaid In the living room, plaid pillows, blankets, window panels, rugs and upholstery add subtle visual interest without the busyness of a more complex pattern. In the kitchen and dining room, coasters, napkins, place mats, tea towels and tablecloths or runners bring in a dash of style. And in the bedroom, crisp windowpane bedding elements are so much more exciting than solid alternatives.

Houndstooth While often associated with men’s suiting fabric, chef’s pants and Sherlock Holmes’ hat, houndstooth has found firm footing in home decor. More dynamic than idle squares, houndstooth looks like it’s on the move. It’s a type of twill made by alternating bands of four dark and four light threads in both vertical and horizontal directions. One thread is advanced at each pass to give it its characteristic slant. Smallscale houndstooth is casually referred to as puppytooth. While there’s no dimension threshold separating the two, houndstooth at this more reserved scale is undeniably classic.

Decorating with houndstooth While houndstooth traditionally has a clubby, highbrow tone, used in the right way it also can feel fresh, bright and youthful. Windowpane plaid isn’t the only one capitalizing on its relationship to men’s clothing. To add a tailored, clean and classic look associated with men’s fashion, incorporate houndstooth in one of a variety of scales and colors. Although it’s considered a traditional pattern, large-scale houndstooth has a more contemporary aesthetic. But it is also important to consider the size of the houndstooth pattern in relationship to the components of your furniture piece. A larger pattern “falling off” the side of a thin swooping arm of a chair would lose its refinement. Elegance is in the details. Katie Laughridge is the owner of Kansas City interior design destination Nell Hill’s.

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1

Redrock renewal. Breathe fresh air and renewed energy into your space with redrock renewal, which incorporates nature and spirit through earthy tones paired with bold influences of turquoise, clay and olive. Embrace a clean, light slate layered with simple textures to create a room that is calm, joyful, serene and spiritual. This trend can make a big impact in any space through small details like textured pillows, cozy blankets and clay vases.

2

Home forecast 4 styles on the horizon for your dwelling in 2023

W

by statepoint media

ith travel returning to normal, there’s a renewed interest in seeing the world, but you don’t have to go far to bring the beautiful details of faraway destinations into your home’s

spaces.

With this in mind, celebrity interior designer Taniya Nayak has identified the top design trends for 2023, all with an eye to how travel can inspire home décor.

Bohemian bazaar. The bohemian bazaar style is about creating an environment that emboldens everyone in it to live a vibrant, authentic life. To achieve this look, add a pop of color where it’s least expected, like mixing chairs in different shades of fabric around the table or adding bright, bold hues to an otherwise small, dark hallway. Inspired by the people, culture and food of destinations like Morocco, India and Africa, this trend merges the details of handcrafted goods with soulful experiences by encouraging the mixing of patterns and colors.

3

Nordic nature. This style encourages a pure, clean and fresh space by bringing elements of the outdoors into your home. The palette is reflective of a Scandinavian aesthetic, consisting of concrete, wood and crisp white walls to create a space with natural, modern and organic appeal. Look for unique opportunities to make natureinspired but daring statements that balance the rustic feel with an uncluttered and contemporary vibe. Apply a subtle concrete layer to your walls for added interest, movement and texture.

4

Midtown modern. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and excitement of a fastpaced, on-the-go lifestyle, but the midtown modern movement is about turning your place into a space to pause and savor every moment of each day. Implement saturated hues like black or navy to create an urban, contemporary vibe. Elevate the look with plush fabrics like velvet, wool and satin. Complete the room by adding a special sparkle, with statement pieces that have bright, brass or metal finishes. “If your hardware is losing its luster, remove it and spray paint it with a new finish for a fresh new look,” Nayak said. Let the sights and experiences of the world not only inspire your adventures, but also your home.

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herHome

Inside the mind of a

professional organizer A m I the only one who feels like 2022 flew by?

by jessi bushman

There is a difference between life documents and daily documents. The ironic thing about each is that most paper is unnecessary and should be discarded. On the flip side, we have a lot of important documents that should be retained our entire life, which might transfer to future generations.

With the New Year around the corner, this is an ideal time to catch up and plan ahead — specifically when it comes to organization of your life documents.

Within a 365-day period, the majority of us have experienced one, if not multiple, life-altering changes. Many of those involve documentation.

Unless you have a designated home for your documents, poof. A pile is born. Piles tend to multiply. They can accumulate on surfaces, floors and be tossed into boxes, turning into a huge undertaking if left uncontrolled. Examples of new life documents might include: • A new home purchase or the sale of a previous property. • Major household purchases and improvements. • A new vehicle or the sale of a previous vehicle. • Marriage or divorce records. • Birth or death records. • Medical history and updates. • A new job, including insurance, payroll,

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investments and resume updates.

19 to 25, and 26 and older.

• Starting a new business or selling an existing business.

The first life stage typically is managed by a guardian or caretaker.

• Kids and establishing their independence or their residence.

The second involves gaining independence and claiming responsibility to maintain your life documents. This is challenging if the guardian did not have an organizational system in place. Gaining knowledge on how to retain your life documents early will set you up for success.

We all experience life stages, and our life documents and file retention should reflect this. I categorize life stages by age-range: 0 to 18,

The third life stage indicates we are adults. If our life documents are out of control, it’s time to tackle paper chaos. Easy accessibility of your life documents can make daily retention and times of tragedy easier to manage. There is a difference between life documents and daily documents. The ironic thing about each is that most paper is unnecessary and should be discarded. On the flip side, we have a lot of important

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documents that should be retained our entire life, which might transfer to future generations. Begin the process by getting your documents together. You have to know what you’re working with before you can organize it. It’s common for people to keep everything. First, gather boxes, and purchase hanging file folders. Files versus piles. Second, use an existing file cabinet or purchase bins designed for hanging file folders. • Designate a recycle box: Junk mail. • Designate a shred box: Outdated or irrelevant documents displaying personal information. • Establish a personal bin or cabinet with hanging folders for daily documents you can clean out annually. These might include: • Utility bills. • Expenses. • Receipts. • Identification, citizenship and international documents. • Household documents. • Ownership documents. • End of life documents. My experience in helping others has shown that a majority of documents retained are junk. This typically applies to daily documents, but on occasion, life documents also are no longer valid. Establish and maintain a habit to shred and recycle mail clutter immediately. This might feel overwhelming at first, but once you realize dealing with your mail on a daily basis versus to-do piles, you easily will establish a routine that takes a matter of minutes versus hours or days, months or years to process.

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Once files are established, it’s a good practice to review documents on an annual basis. This allows you to verify accuracy, importance and discard documents that are no longer current. We take the time to put up and take down holiday decorations annually. Why would maintaining our life documents require any less attention? Think about your priorities and how a little effort every day can lessen frustration and confusion down the road. Your collection of documents is specific to you. If documents are unorganized,

most likely, they will become a challenge to manage — not only for yourself but also for those assisting you one day. Creating confusion and burden is the last thing any of us intend to do. Document and file retention is essential at every life stage to maintain your possessions, your documents and your legacy. Jessi Bushman is a professional organizer, member of the Iowa Professional Organizers Association and owner of Organizer Jessi in Dubuque. Visit her at organizerjessi.com or on Facebook at OrganizerJessi. You also can email her at [email protected].

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herLeadership

Create your to-dos and not-to-dos for the

holiday season

O

ur schedules this time of year naturally are full with holiday celebrations. Plus, we have extra duties, like shopping, baking, wrapping and decorating.

We don’t have to do some of these events or tasks, but I want to. Even though it’s a lot of work, I enjoy a decorated house with our memory tree (ornaments from vacations and monumental family events) and Christmas village.

by kathie rotz

It usually takes me the entire Thanksgiving weekend to fully decorate my house. With all the other holiday tasks on my list, this decorating frenzy often feels overly extravagant. Am I using my time wisely or expecting too much from myself and creating frustration and disappointment?

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In the evenings, when it is dark by 5 p.m., I treasure the coziness of our home with only the decoration lights turned on. It usually takes me the entire Thanksgiving weekend to fully decorate my house. With all the other holiday tasks on my list, this decorating frenzy often feels overly extravagant. Am I using my time wisely or expecting too much from myself and creating frustration and disappointment? I am not alone when I talk to female friends. This habit of overachieving might be a woman thing. This year, I have extra non-holiday events on my calendar between Thanksgiving and Christmas. My son is getting married, my daughter is graduating from college and I will be traveling overseas for two weeks on a business trip. I need to be fair to myself in my expectations. Otherwise, this happy time could create stressful, regrettable memories.

What is your bulls-eye? To maintain sanity this year and to hit my bulls-eye, I am creating two lists: To-do and not-to-do.

Not-to-do The not-to-do list is more difficult for me to create. I need to consider adjusting or skipping some traditions. Don’t expect to do any decorating on Thanksgiving weekend this year. That weekend is all about my son and his beautiful bride. I’m sure they will have a to-do list for me leading up to their wedding.

If you can relate to the added stress of this season, think about what would make it a joyful time for you. What needs to happen (or not happen) for you to consider your holidays a success?

Don’t worry about Christmas baking until the week before Christmas, once I have returned home from my trip. We only need to make one batch of our favorite cookies at that time instead of three batches of four types of cookies. (This decision might be a blessing to my health, too.)

This time of year also is deer hunting season. I picture my husband in the woods, seeking a successful hunt. He needs the right tools and a perfect aim to hit his bulls-eye.

Don’t make as many batches of fudge. I like to give gifts to everyone I know. Fudge is a sweet treat to surprise friends. Instead of reducing the list of people to give fudge to, gift

herLeadership smaller containers to each person. One batch will allow me to give to 10 friends instead of only four. Don’t send out Christmas cards. Instead, send out New Year’s cards. This way, I can include a wedding, graduation and snowcovered puppy picture.

To-do Creating the to-do list requires some creative scheduling. What can I complete before crunch time arrives? Finish Christmas shopping and wrapping before Thanksgiving. Start decorating the house the weekend before Thanksgiving. My husband and I need to unload the basement of the decoration boxes before he leaves for his deer hunting

weekend. Maybe the kids will want to help. Mail gifts to far-away friends and family by Dec. 1. When I think of hitting my bulls-eye, I also want to enjoy some downtime to savor this season. I have three more tasks to add to my to-do list that might seem frivolous. However, they are necessary to create happy memories. Tune in my radio to Christmas music stations. Play this happy music whenever I am cooking, wrapping and driving. There is never enough time to enjoy these joyful tunes. I must intentionally enjoy these seasonal songs before they get packed away for next year. Walk the dogs every night in the early evening to enjoy the lights and outdoor decorations in the neighborhood.

Enjoy at least one Hallmark movie each week. These tasks are the rewards that I can look forward to after a busy day or week. It is not too late for you to define your holiday season bulls-eye. Create your to-do and not-to-do lists and post them on your refrigerator. Remember to add rewards to your list to create happy memories. Writing this article has helped me plan. I have numerous Post-it Notes on my desk, organized in date order. It is time to get started so that by Christmas, I am happy with the bullseye that I hit. Kathie Rotz is an executive leadership coach and speaker with Unity Consulting and the author of “You Have Superpowers” online learning program.

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herReflection

A time for

dreams and wishes

by rasharra smith

This year for Christmas, remember to take steps toward your hopes and dreams. While the kids write their lists for Santa, we can write our list — a list of goals and affirmations.

T

he holidays should be filled with joy and magic. But the older we get, the more it seems the magic is running out.

Christmas is the time to make dreams and wishes come true. However, we often are so busy helping others achieve their dreams that we neglect our own. As adults, we carry a lot on our plate, especially this time of year. We spend tons of money buying gifts for loved ones, on groceries for dinner, and let’s not forget the tree and every penny we spend on Christmas lights and ornaments. While we splurge to turn our homes into the North Pole, we also budget to pay the bills. Debt collectors don’t stop calling just because it’s the season for giving. And Jack Frost will be nipping for sure if we can’t keep the heat on. While everyone takes and takes and we give and give more of ourselves to please everyone around us, we forget to take care of ourselves. This year for Christmas, remember to take steps toward your hopes and dreams. While the kids write their lists for Santa, we can write our list — a list of goals and affirmations. Christmas is a time to envision our wildest desires. Writing a list of those desires is a form of manifestation. Manifestation is a tool for attracting the things you want in life by using thoughts and emotions. It’s all about having a positive mindset, which is important during the stressful holiday season. A few tips on writing your list: Picture what you want. What do you wish to achieve? What are your biggest goals? Think about this in great detail. Visualize it happening to you. Next, write it down. The written word is

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powerful. You can write it as a wish list or as affirmations. Some examples might be, “receive an offer for a higher paying job,” or “I will get promoted.” Finally, read it out loud. The power of the tongue is magnificent. Read your goals and affirmations, speaking them into existence. However, figuring out what you want is just half the part. You have to put the work in. We work so hard for the people in our lives, at home and at work. We have to find the time to work for ourselves. I enjoy doing things for others and making the ones I care for smile, even when it takes a lot out of me. I’ve had to learn recently that I have to care for myself just the same and make myself smile. My Christmas goal list looks a lot like “go to the gym twice per week,” “finally use my new yoga mat,” “journal once per day for 10 minutes.” These are just a few of the things I want to accomplish to make myself feel good. There’re also things on my list like a new laptop and new boots — because who wouldn’t wish for new boots? I’ve written down the things I want and need so that I can start putting myself first. It’s the time for dreams and wishes. And I’m going to be sure mine don’t get forgotten. Rasharra Smith is a student at the University of Dubuque.

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